Tomorrow, the Philatelic Bureau of Maltapost will issue a set of four stamps entitled “Occasions”. These stamps are aimed primarily at making certain occasions a bit more special, by being more specific in their message. Indeed, the use of these special stamps will help convey the sender’s message even before the envelope is opened.

8c – Happy Birthday: This stamp depicts three lighted candles – a clear message for celebrating a birthday. The array of yellow starlets sprinkled about the stamp signifies a vibrant, bright future and “Many Happy Returns”, as expressed in traditional birthday cards.

16c – Happy Anniversary: This stamp shows a flaming heart bursting with love. Also depicted on this Occasion stamp is Cupid’s burning arrow. This stamp would make an ideal keepsake to mark almost any milestone in the life of a friend or relative.

27c – Congratulations: This stamp is of a more general celebratory nature. The three friends swaying merrily to happy tunes are holding a balloon, a gift and a candle, respectively. Sending a letter franked with such a “Congratulations” stamp would be a perfect way of sharing memories of this special occasion.

37c – Best Wishes: There are countless occasions when a “Best Wishes” occasion stamp could be used. This stamp, the last in the “Occasions” set, depicts differently shaped, colourful balloons – traditionally the ideal way to greet family and friends on special occasions.

This set of stamps will be available in First Day Cover, mint and cancelled formats,

and as a Souvenir Folder and Presentation Pack. Additional details regarding this

and forthcoming issues are available from the Philatelic Bureau of Maltapost

(tel. 2123 9153, e-mail [email protected]) or from the Maltapost website www.maltapost.com